Melvin Mora was supposed to be in Norfolk on Tuesday.
But because of traffic issues en route to the airport, he skipped his planned rehab stint at the Orioles' Class AAA affiliate and promptly drove in runs for Baltimore in each of his first two at-bats against the Angels. Batting fifth, Mora went 3-for-5 with two RBIs to boost his average to .381.
Mora's return from a hamstring injury is key for the Orioles' lineup, which had been strong in his absence but missed his right-handed bat. Mora's presence is a boost to the lefty-heavy order, and his underrated defense is an upgrade over reserve Ty Wiggington.
Mora ran for the club's training staff Tuesday and got the all-clear to be activated early in the afternoon. He was slated to play one game for Norfolk before joining the Orioles in Toronto on Friday.
Mora's return puts Wiggington in a designated hitter platoon and reserve position, and it puts utility man Ryan Freel even deeper in reserve. The former Reds super-sub is unhappy with his role in the organization, even while on the disabled list with a head injury.
ANGELS 7, ORIOLES 5: The Orioles allowed the opposition to put runs on the board early and again paid the price. Manager Dave Trembley was ejected for the first time this season for arguing a balk call in the seventh inning.
